Best Trolling Motors of 2025

Jason Kiser Avatar
Jason Kiser
Last Updated: Jan 14, 2025

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Trolling motors are an essential piece of equipment for any angler looking to navigate through the waters quietly and efficiently. These electric motors are designed to be mounted on the bow or stern of a fishing boat, and are controlled by a foot pedal or hand-held remote. They provide precise speed and direction control, allowing anglers to move through the water with ease while fishing. Trolling motors come in a range of sizes and power ratings, so it's important to choose the right one for your boat and fishing needs. They are a must-have for any serious angler who wants to maximize their fishing experience.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Newport NV-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Transom Mounted Trolling Motor Cover #TOP 1
Newport NV-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Transom Mounted Trolling Motor
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Minn Kota Endura 30 Trolling Motor Cover #TOP 2
Minn Kota Endura 30 Trolling Motor
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Newport Kayak Series 36lb Thrust Electric Trolling Motor Cover #TOP 3
Newport Kayak Series 36lb Thrust Electric Trolling Motor
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Trolling Motors

Newport NV-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Transom Mounted Trolling Motor

Newport
23M1000203
Black
30" Shaft
Newport NV-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Transom Mounted Trolling Motor Cover
Newport NV-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Transom Mounted Trolling Electric Trolling Motor w/ LED Battery Indicator & 30" Shaft (23M1000203)

The Newport NV-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Transom Mounted Trolling Motor is a powerful and efficient 12V electric trolling motor with a 30" shaft, 5 LED battery meter, 6" telescoping tiller handle, and 3 blade propeller. It has 8 speeds, 5 forward and 3 reverse, and is designed for trolling with a top speed of 4 mph. It requires one 12V lead-acid deep cycle or lithium deep cycle battery (not included), with a 50Ah recommended. Customers have praised its great value, quiet operation, and quick speed, though some have noted water intrusion into the motor housing.

What We Like
Powerful performance
Good battery life
Easy to install
Saltwater resistant
LED battery indicator
What We Don't Like
First gear too aggressive
Less refined than competitors
#TOP 2

Minn Kota Endura 30 Trolling Motor

1352270M
Black
Not Available
Minn Kota Endura 30 Trolling Motor Cover
Minn Kota 1352270M Endura 30 lb. Thrust, 30" Shaft, Battery Meter

The Minn Kota Endura 30 is designed for ease of use and durability. Its lever lock bracket offers a secure hold with ten adjustable positions, helping you find the perfect angle for your needs. With a six-inch telescoping tiller, you can easily control the motor, ensuring a comfortable grip while you navigate. The motor also features five forward and three reverse speed settings, giving you flexibility in various water conditions. Additionally, the power prop enhances performance, especially when pushing through thick vegetation, making your fishing experience more efficient.

What We Like
Compact and lightweight design
Good battery efficiency
Intuitive controls
Sturdy propeller construction
Quiet operation
What We Don't Like
Initial prop rubbing issue
Quality control concerns
#TOP 3

Newport Kayak Series 36lb Thrust Electric Trolling Motor

Newport
23M1000402
Gray
Newport Kayak Series 36lb Thrust Electric Trolling Motor Cover
Newport Kayak Series 36lb Thrust Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor w/LED Battery Indicator (24" Shaft)

The Newport Kayak Series 36lb Thrust Electric Trolling Motor is a reliable and versatile motor designed specifically for kayaks. With its 24-inch fiberglass shaft, you can easily adjust the depth placement to suit your needs. The motor offers 8 variable speeds, allowing you to have complete control over your ride. Whether you're going forward or in reverse, the 6-inch telescoping handle makes it effortless to navigate through the water. The motor is saltwater rated, thanks to its durable all aluminum motor head and corrosion-resistant hardware. This means you can confidently take it out in saltwater without worrying about damage. Additionally, the extra-long 5'6" battery cables provide flexibility in battery placement, ensuring optimal weight distribution for a smooth and balanced ride. The Newport Kayak Trolling Motor is the perfect companion for any kayak enthusiast looking for a powerful and reliable motor.

What We Like
Strong and durable build
Excellent customer service
Good performance in kayaks
Fast delivery
Compatible with various batteries
What We Don't Like
Minor issues with speed control
Box arrived slightly damaged
#TOP 4

Newport X-Series 55lb Thrust Trolling Motor

Newport
23M1000306
Black
55lb Thrust
Newport X-Series 55lb Thrust Trolling Motor Cover
Newport X-Series 55lb Thrust Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor w/LED Battery Indicator (36" Shaft)

The Newport X-Series 55lb Thrust Trolling Motor is a powerful and efficient electric motor that comes with an adjustable 36-inch fiberglass shaft, 8-speed control system, 10 LED battery meter, and a 3-blade propeller. This transom mount motor is suitable for all inflatable boats, kayaks, dinghies, tenders, and fishing boats with a transom. With a 30-degree adjustable head and tiller handle, you can adjust the motor's angle, height, and direction. The motor requires one 12V Lead-Acid Deep Cycle or Lithium Deep Cycle battery (not included) and is protected by a 50amp circuit breaker. Newport Vessels is based in California with a full in-house customer service team, providing you with peace of mind.

What We Like
Powerful thrust
Durable construction
Good battery life
Easy to install
Quiet operation
What We Don't Like
Noisy at higher speeds
Some vibration issues

Cloud Mountain Trolling Motor 26 LBs

TM3101AL30
Black
Cloud Mountain Trolling Motor 26 LBs Cover
Cloud Mountain Trolling Motor Electric Outboard Brushed for Fishing Boats Saltwater Transom Mounted with Adjustable Handle, 26 LBs Thrust 12V 28" Shaft

The Cloud Mountain Trolling Motor offers a robust and durable design with its reinforced nylon bracket and all-aluminum head, ensuring long-lasting performance. You'll appreciate the ergonomic extendable handle with eight speeds, allowing you to navigate smoothly with ease. The 28-inch fiberglass composite shaft provides excellent corrosion resistance and precise depth control in various water conditions, making it ideal for seated operation. Additionally, the 10-point LED battery indicator helps you monitor battery life, so you can enjoy your time on the water without worrying about running out of power.

What We Like
Strong thrust performance
Power efficient brushless motor
Easy to steer
Quiet operation
Great for heavy boats
What We Don't Like
Momentary power bursts when downshifting
Lack of voltage specification clarity
#TOP 6

Minn Kota PowerDrive 55 lb. Trolling Motor

1358451
Black
Not Available
Minn Kota PowerDrive 55 lb. Trolling Motor Cover
Minn Kota 1358451 PowerDrive 55 lb. Thrust, 54" Shaft, Micro Remote

The Minn Kota PowerDrive Motor is designed to enhance your fishing experience. With the deploy-assist lever, you can easily get in and out of the water, making setup a breeze. The advanced GPS trolling system ensures you stay on the fish by allowing you to set Spot-Locks and control your speed and steering effortlessly. Plus, the push-to-test battery meter lets you check your battery's charge with just a press of a button, ensuring you're always prepared. Finally, the digital maximizer extends your run time by delivering only the power you need for a full day on the water.

What We Like
Easy installation
Reliable performance
Effortless anchoring
Excellent for larger boats
Convenient operation
What We Don't Like
Poor setup directions
Lower unit issues reported
#TOP 7

Minn Kota Edge Freshwater Cable-Steer Bow-Mount Trolling Motor

3005.7277
Not Available
36-Inch Shaft
Minn Kota Edge Freshwater Cable-Steer Bow-Mount Trolling Motor Cover
Edge 45 lb. / FP - 36"

The Minn Kota Edge Freshwater Cable-Steer Bow-Mount Trolling Motor, also known as the Minn Kota Edge Trolling Motor, is a reliable and durable motor designed specifically for freshwater trolling. With its 36" shaft and 45 lbs of thrust, this motor provides the power and control you need for a successful fishing trip. The Latch & Door Bracket ensures a secure hold and easy removal of the motor, while the Heel-Toe / Cable-Steer Foot Pedal offers ultra-responsive control with speed adjustments. Choose from five speed settings to find the perfect trolling speed. The Power Prop delivers extra power to navigate through heavy vegetation. With the Minn Kota Edge Trolling Motor, you can enjoy a smooth and efficient trolling experience, allowing you to focus on your fishing.

What We Like
Reliable performance
Strong power output
Excellent for weedy conditions
Good value for money
What We Don't Like
Stow angle issue
#TOP 8

Minn Kota Endura Max 55 lb.

1352155M
Black
Not Available
Minn Kota Endura Max 55 lb. Cover
Minn Kota 1352155M Endura Max 55 lb. Thrust, 36" Shaft

The Minn Kota Endura Max is designed for efficient and user-friendly fishing trips. With its Lever Lock Bracket, you can easily secure the motor at various angles, ensuring stability on the water. The six-inch telescoping tiller allows you to control speed settings smoothly, making it comfortable to navigate. Thanks to the Digital Maximizer, you can enjoy extended run times on a single battery charge, which means more time fishing. Additionally, the Push-to-Test Battery Meter provides a quick way to check your battery life, keeping you informed during your outings.

What We Like
Great motor performance
Excellent battery life
Variable speed options
Quiet operation
High-quality construction
What We Don't Like
Issues in reverse
Poor customer support
#TOP 9

Minn Kota Riptide PowerDrive 70 lb

1363585
White
Not Available
Minn Kota Riptide PowerDrive 70 lb Cover
Minn Kota 1363585 Riptide PowerDrive 70 lb. Thrust, 54" Shaft, Micro Remote

The Minn Kota Riptide PowerDrive offers a range of features designed to enhance your fishing experience. The deploy-assist lever allows you to easily get your trolling motor in and out of the water, making your trips more efficient. With its advanced GPS trolling system, you can navigate with precision, setting spot-locks and controlling speed directly from a handy micro remote. The push-to-test battery meter provides you with an instant battery status, ensuring you’re never caught off guard. Plus, advanced corrosion protection keeps your motor safe from rust and wear, extending its lifespan.

What We Like
70lb thrust power
Remote control feature
Amazing technology
Long battery life
What We Don't Like
Initial remote control issue
#TOP 10

Haswing Cayman 12V 55lbs Electric Trolling Motor

50700
black
Haswing Cayman 12V 55lbs Electric Trolling Motor Cover
Black Haswing Cayman 12V 55lbs 48 inch Bow Mount Electric Trolling Motor Lightweight, Variable Speed, with Foot Control/Quick Release Bracket for Bass Fishing Boats Freshwater/Saltwater

The Haswing Cayman 12V 55lbs Electric Trolling Motor is equipped with variable speed, quiet operation, and a remote control feature. It is suitable for boats weighing up to 2750 lbs and can be used in both fresh and saltwater. The motor is designed with corrosion-resistant material and features an ergonomic lifting handle and stow-and-deploy pedal for easy transportation. Additionally, the depth collar allows for quick and secure depth adjustments.

What We Like
Powerful motor performance
Easy installation
Responsive remote control
Quality components
Good battery consumption
What We Don't Like
Requires frequent readjustments
Noise when turning
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How big of an electric trolling motor do I need?

When choosing an electric trolling motor, consider the weight of your boat. As a general rule, you'll want a minimum of 2 lbs of thrust for every 100 lbs of boat weight. For example, a 3000 lb boat would require 60 lbs of thrust to adequately power it.

2. How fast does a 55 pound thrust trolling motor go?

Under ideal water conditions, a 55 lb thrust trolling motor can reach speeds of up to 5 miles per hour. The actual speed may vary depending on factors such as boat weight, battery type, and motor propellers.

3. How fast will a 100 lb thrust trolling motor go?

The maximum speed of a trolling motor is typically around 5 miles per hour, regardless of the thrust rating.

4. How fast will a 40lb trolling motor go?

A trolling motor with 36, 46, or 40 lbs of thrust, on a 7.5-foot boat carrying a 200-pound load, can reach speeds of around 3.5 miles per hour on calm water. A 55 lb thrust motor in similar conditions can achieve around 4 miles per hour, while a 62 lb thrust motor can reach about 4.5 miles per hour.

5. How fast will a 50 lb thrust trolling motor go?

The maximum speed of a trolling motor is typically around 5 miles per hour, regardless of the thrust rating.

6. How fast will a 62 lb thrust trolling motor go?

The speed of a trolling motor depends on various factors such as boat shape, weight, water conditions, wind, and others. However, a trolling motor with 62 lbs of thrust is designed for trolling and can reach top speeds of approximately 4.25 mph.

7. How big of a boat will a 55lb trolling motor push?

A 55 lb thrust trolling motor is suitable for boats between 12 and 16 feet in length.

8. How fast will a 85 lb thrust trolling motor go?

The maximum speed of a trolling motor is typically around 5 miles per hour, regardless of the thrust rating.

Editor's Notes

During our trolling motor research, we found 24 trolling motor products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 36,840 customer reviews through our big data system to write the trolling motors list. We found that most customers choose trolling motors with an average price of $350.09.

The trolling motors are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of trolling motors, including Newport, Minn Kota, Cloud Mountain, Haswing. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Jason Kiser Avatar

Jason Kiser is an editor who lives in California, he previously worked in a travel agency for ten years, which enabled him to travel a number of interesting countries and experience several different cultures along the way. His range of job and travel experiences grant him expertise in hiking, camping, outdoors and fitness.

Trolling Motors Comparison Table

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Brand Newport Minn Kota Newport Newport Cloud Mountain Minn Kota Minn Kota Minn Kota Minn Kota Haswing
Color Black Black Gray Black Black Black Not Available Black White black
Material Aluminum Aluminum Composite, Fiberglass, Plastic Aluminum Aluminum, Stainless Steel Aluminum Aluminum Indestructible Composite Aluminum Aluminum, Metal
Engine Type electric Electric Trolling Motor Trolling Motor Electric Trolling Motor electric electric Electric Electric electric
Item Weight 23.2 Pounds 16 Pounds 20 Pounds 23 Pounds 13.2 Pounds 24 Pounds 18 Pounds 24 Pounds - -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 9.0
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